GOVERNMENT minister Eric Pickles will have the final say if controversial plans for a student village get council approval next month.

Bell Developments has submitted plans for a 2,500-bed student village on green belt land between Blacon and Mollington including associated sports facilities and car parking.

A briefing to members of Cheshire West and Chester Council says the strategic planning committee will make its decision at HQ in Chester on Thursday, May 10, after considering the planning officer’s recommendation.

But it makes clear Eric Pickles, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, may have the final say.

It states: “If it is approved, then it will have to be referred to the Secretary of State as a major departure from the Local Plan for the area as the site is within designated green belt.

“This could result in significant delay before a decision is finally made and may result in a public inquiry.

“If it is refused on May 10, then a decision can be issued quickly thereafter. The developer then has the right to lodge an appeal within six months of the decision date.”

Members are advised that requests to speak at committee will be limited to those who have previously submitted a comment or objection and have registered a written request to speak in advance.

Councillors have also been directed to the section of the council website covering the protocol on speaking at planning committees.